New signage to improve city cycling commute

Julian Hearne

City commuters can now enjoy a leisurely cycle to work thanks to improved signage on minor roads and the nearby Forth and Clyde canal towpath.

The signage has been funded by ScotRail, as part of the Queen Street Tunnel improvement works, to offer an alternative active travel option for customers from Bishopbrigs and the surrounding areas.

With support from Scottish Canals, Glasgow City Council and East Dunbartonshire Council, Transport Planning and Engineering - the social enterprise established by Cycling Scotland, has developed the signage to be delivered throughout May.

The new signs will direct cyclists along the canal towpath and into the city centre – a journey which only takes between 20-30 minutes.

Phil Verster, the ScotRail Alliance’s managing director, said: “Cycling to work can really brighten up the daily commute, and we’re delighted to fund this signage as part of the wider Glasgow Queen Street Tunnel project.

“We understand cycling isn’t for everyone, but we’d encourage those who maybe haven’t been on their bikes for a while to give the canal towpath route a try. As a safe, direct, and easy route into the city centre, you can take the path at your own pace and have an enjoyable journey to work.”

Cycling Scotland’s chief executive, Keith Irving, said: “With summer on its way and a huge range of cycling events in Glasgow to look forward to, there has never been a better time to get on your bike.

“Going by bike can be a convenient, healthy and affordable way to get to work. We’re delighted that this new partnership between ScotRail, the councils, Scottish Canals and Cycling Scotland will help promote cycling.”

To celebrate the new signage, local bike charity Free Wheel North has arranged a community day on Saturday 28 May, giving members of the public a chance to try out cycling on the canal towpath – or perhaps get reacquainted with their old bikes.

The event will take place at The White House (1641 Maryhill Road, G20 0DZ) between 10am and 4pm, with experienced staff on hand to lead demonstration rides into the city centre and other areas around Glasgow.

Free bike hire will also be available for those who don’t have their own set of wheels, and a ‘Dr Bike’ station will be set up offering complimentary safety checks to make sure bikes are road-ready.

Colin Clark, development manager for Free Wheel North at the White House, said: “We’re really looking forward to the community day at the White House. Our mechanics are all geared up to service bikes, and we’ll have plenty of staff on hand to answer questions and provide guidance.

“There will even be some drinks and snacks available so come on down and join in the fun!”

For more information on the community event, please visit the Free Wheel North at the White House Facebook page: www.facebook.com/freewheelnorth.whitehouse